60 Years : 1 Vision
The History of a Creative Community at The Rye Arts Center
Curated by Gail Harrison Roman & Sarah Mackay
On view: September 26 - October 26, 2024
Walk With the Curators: Sept. 28, 2-4pm
Workshops for Kids: Sept. 28, 2-4pm (RSVP)
From the first art classes held in a barn in 1961 to the community-wide “51 Milton Campaign” of the mid-1980s, The Rye Arts Center has inspired maximum participation and interest in the arts for generations. We invite you to explore this 60-year historical overview of The RAC and enjoy a trip down memory lane.
The Rye Arts Center is poised to captivate art enthusiasts and history buffs alike with its forthcoming exhibition, 60 Years: 1 Vision. This is a meticulously curated showcase from Gail H. Roman and Sarah Mackay, which traces a rich archive of the arts in our community. This exhibition visits every aspect in detail of our creativity, starting from the humble beginnings in 1960 and landing in the year 2020: beholding the now cultural home and thriving epicenter of artistic excellence in Rye. This exhibition will offer an enlightening exploration of local artistic evolution and The Rye Arts Center’s growing cultural milestones.
Gallery Highlights include references to past exhibitions that explored themes and mediums worldwide: ancient Japanese armor, contemporary African-American artworks, Indian multidisciplinary events, and Soviet dissident works.
Music and Performing Arts became integral after the 1987 merger with the Rye Performing Arts Council, featuring concerts by celebrity pianists and string virtuosos, jazz performances, and community theater productions.
Literary and Dramatic Readings and avant-garde film showings have been a staple since the Center's early days.
Outreach Programs extend the Center’s excellence to underserved communities, including Head Start in neighboring Port Chester and Dance for Parkinson’s Disease for the senior community.
Public Programs and Events include "Painters on Location," the school-based art appreciation program "Famous Artists," guided tours to international museums and regional galleries, and social events like annual galas and seasonal sales.
Classes and Workshops in all the arts, taught by professionals, continue to educate and entertain everyone from toddlers to seniors.
"This exhibition celebrates our rich artistic heritage and the pivotal role The Rye Arts Center has played in nurturing community creativity," say Adam Levi, Executive Director. "We invite the public to reflect on our past and inspire future generations."
Opening Reception: The public is invited to the opening reception on Saturday, September 28th from 2:00 - 4:00 PM to meet the curators, enjoy refreshments, and experience the exhibition. A presentation on Faith Ringgold's “Story Quilts” will inspire workshops for children to create their personal narratives in collage and drawing. Workshop attendance is free, but pre-registration is required.
Visitor Information: 60 Years: 1 Vision is accessible during regular hours. Admission is complimentary, with donations encouraged.